What is a rivet? What are the types of rivets? How does a rivet work?
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about rivets so you can make an informed choice on the best products for your industrial or engineering projects.
What is a rivet?
Rivet definition: A rivet is a cylindrical shaft with a head on one end, typically made from metal. They are used as permanent fasteners to join two pieces of material (again, usually metal) together.
Rivets are widely used in construction and engineering, including shipbuilding, the automotive industry, structural engineering and manufacturing.
How does a rivet work?
The rivet is inserted through aligned holes before the tail end is hammered into place. The flattened tail and the rivet head lock the rivet in place, holding the materials together.
How to Choose the Right Rivet?
Choosing the right rivet for the job depends on several practical factors.
The first consideration is the materials being joined together. Softer materials may require different rivet types than harder metals. The grip length (the distance between the head and tail) is critical, as the rivet must suit the combined thickness of the materials to lock them firmly together.
Another major consideration is exposure to the elements, with corrosion-resistant materials needed for use outdoors, at sea or in other harsh environments.
The installation method is also a major consideration. Some rivets require specialised tools whilst others can be fitted much quicker manually.
Finally, load requirements need to be calculated to ensure the right type of rivet is used to keep the joint secure.
Types of rivets
There are numerous types of rivets available. They come in a range of sizes and can be made from different materials (see below) to suit specific applications. The main types are:
- Solid rivet
- Blind rivet (pop rivets)
- Semi tubular rivet
- Tubular rivet
- Split rivet
- Drive rivets
- Flush rivet
- Rivet nuts and threaded inserts
- Speciality rivets
Common rivet materials
Rivets are most commonly made from the following materials:
- Aluminium
- Steel
- Stainless steel
- Copper
- Brass
Common rivet applications
Rivets are used across a range of applications depending on material type and performance requirements.
Rivets for metal sheets – These are commonly used in construction, automotive work and general fabrication. Solid or blind rivets provide a strong, reliable joint for steel and aluminium sheets where durability and load strength are vital.
Rivets for thin materials – For lighter or thinner materials including plastics or thin metal, specialised rivets (pop rivets, for example) can be used. These help prevent damage, distortion or pull-through during installation.
Rivets for corrosion-resistant materials – In outdoor, marine or high-moisture environments, rivets made from stainless steel or aluminium offer corrosion-resistance, ensuring a longer-lasting, secure fix.
Advantages of using rivets
There are numerous advantages of using rivets. These include:
- Strong permanent joints – secure, tamper-resistant connections that do not loosen over time
- Vibration resistance – will not loosen under continued vibration, unlike threaded fasteners
- Lightweight fastening – rivets can add strength and reinforce structures without adding unnecessary weight
- Cost-effective installation – quicker and easier to install than many other fastening methods, making them a lower-cost option
- Suitable for thin materials – the right types of rivets work well with thin sheets where screws or bolts may cause damage
- Reliable long-term performance – durable and long-lasting, even in challenging conditions including repeated stress and environmental exposure
Limitations of rivets
Whilst rivets are an excellent solution in many engineering and industrial projects, they do have some limitations:
- Permanent fastening – rivets are used for permanent fixtures and prevent structures from being disassembled and reassembled easily
- Removal difficulty – once installed, rivets are hard to remove and often need to be drilled out
- Potential need for specialised tools – some types of rivets require specific tools for installation, adding time and cost
- Limited adjustability – when installed, rivets cannot be tightened or adjusted like bolts or screws
- Not always suitable for disassembly/maintenance – not practical where components need to be regularly removed or repositioned
Rivets are suitable for a range of applications where durability and reliability are key factors. From prolonged stress, such as the vibrations on aeroplanes, to harsh environments like the sea, and even in more lightweight applications, rivets provide strong, permanent joints to keep materials in place.
If you would like any guidance in finding the best types of rivets for your project, the team at Fastenright are here to help.
Contact us to discuss your needs today.
